Dumaguete, Philippines: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Dumaguete, Philippines? If you're planning to go to Dumaguete, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Dumaguete, Philippines

Based on the climate and weather in Dumaguete, Philippines, the best time to go is April. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Dumaguete, Philippines

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Dumaguete, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Dumaguete, Philippines by month

January

In January, Dumaguete is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Dumaguete, with a few of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you vacation in Dumaguete during February, you are likely to notice that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you go to Dumaguete in March, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Dumaguete can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you go to Dumaguete in May, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June can be very hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you go to Dumaguete in July, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

Traveling to Dumaguete in August, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to choose the necessary type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in this region is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you go to Dumaguete in October, you will notice that it is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Dumaguete can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

In December, Dumaguete can be very hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Dumaguete, with a few of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dumaguete. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of Santa Catalina, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Dumaguete, Philippines

Dumaguete is a small yet vibrant city located in the province of Negros Oriental in the Philippines. Often referred to as the "City of Gentle People," Dumaguete offers tourists an unmatched combination of friendly locals, rich culture, and breathtaking natural wonders. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Dumaguete that one must visit:

1. Silliman University Anthropology Museum

Silliman University Anthropology Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves to learn about different cultures. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various indigenous groups in the Philippines. There are also interactive exhibits and displays that highlight the rich history and cultural heritage of Dumaguete and the surrounding region.

2. Apo Island

Apo Island is a small island located near Dumaguete that is world-famous for its pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. The island is popular among scuba divers and snorkelers who come to explore the vibrant coral formations and the colorful fish that call these waters home.

3. Rizal Boulevard

Rizal Boulevard is a popular promenade that offers stunning views of the sea and the city skyline. It is also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Dumaguete. The boulevard is lined with palm trees, and there are several restaurants and cafes along the way where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the view.

4. Casaroro Falls

Located in the nearby town of Valencia, Casaroro Falls is a magnificent waterfall that drops from a height of over 100 feet. The falls are nestled in a lush forest setting, and visitors can hike through the scenic trails leading to the base of the falls.

5. Dumaguete Cathedral

Dumaguete Cathedral, also known as St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, is a beautiful church that dates back to the 1800s. The cathedral is known for its ornate architecture and stunning stained-glass windows. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to attend mass, weddings, and other religious ceremonies.

6. Forest Camp

Forest Camp is a natural and peaceful escape in the nearby town of Valencia. The camp is nestled in a lush forest setting and features natural pools, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind while enjoying the beauty of nature.

7. Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage

The Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage Museum is an excellent place to learn about the culture and history of the province. The museum showcases the works of local artists, as well as artifacts and exhibits that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Negros Oriental.

Conclusion

Dumaguete offers tourists a unique blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. From the pristine coral reefs of Apo Island to the serene beauty of Forest Camp, Dumaguete has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a quiet and relaxing escape, Dumaguete is the perfect destination.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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